We were told two weeks ago that Nelson Mandela, the first black leader of South Africa, was hospitalized. He has Old-age-itis, the ailments of surpassing his ninetieth birthday. It is remarkable that he survived decades in Robbens Island prison.
It is just as remarkable that he chose a path for the nation which at least attempted to move people beyond retribution. He set the example by forgiving his enemies.
As it happens I came upon a Mandela quote in a book on forgiveness: "Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies." Simple but true.
Is it possible to give up resentment on the way to forgiveness? Should we all give up resentment for Lent.
There's a lifetime of wisdown in that string of thirteen words.
ReplyDeleteI am writing that quote down and putting it on the fridge and in my office. I need daily...make that HOURLY reminders.
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